Philippine authorities are investigating the discovery of a suspected Chinese underwater drone and the presence of one of the world’s largest Coast Guard vessels, developments that are adding to rising tensions in the South China Sea. The region is the focus of ongoing disputes over territorial claims between China and the Philippines. On Monday, Dec.…

California Rep. Barbara Lee, D, ended her time in Congress, recognized for her independent legacy and being the only Black woman elected from Northern California’s house districts. Her notable vote against military force authorization post-Sept. 11 marked a significant moment in her career, showcasing her courage and conviction. She was the only lawmaker to vote…

The FBI unveils more information about the man who drove a truck into a New Orleans crowd on New Year’s Day, killing more than a dozen. And multiple reports indicate President Joe Biden could make a big decision on the proposed takeover of U.S. Steel. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Friday, Jan. 3,…

During his New Year address, Chinese President Xi Jinping called on his country to remain confident in the world’s second-largest economy. Meanwhile, he also warned of “uncertainties in the external environment” just weeks ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. China’s economy is struggling, impacted by weak consumption and a real estate crisis. “The current economic…

The U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions targeting two foreign organizations accused of attempting to interfere in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The sanctions focus on a Russian group, the Center for Geopolitical Expertise, linked to Moscow’s foreign military intelligence agency, the GRU, and an Iranian group, the Cognitive Design Production Center, tied to the…

Colorado is now the second state in the country to legalize the use of psychedelics to help treat mental health issues, like post-traumatic stress and depression. A state law passed in 2022 just went into effect Wednesday, Jan. 1, allowing the therapeutic use of psilocybin, the chemical compound found in psychedelic mushrooms. Just this month, Colorado…

Russian President Vladimir Putin issued an order cracking down on people residing in the country illegally. The order gives migrants until the end of April the ability to secure legal status by paying off debts, passing health checks and taking an exam on the Russian language, history and law. But there’s one other route to…

The Pentagon revealed Monday, Dec. 30, that it’s releasing one of the longest-held prisoners at the U.S. military prison at Guantánamo Bay in Cuba. Ridah Bin Saleh al-Yazidi of Tunisia sat in the prison for more than 20 years without ever being charged with a crime. The Biden administration said al-Yazidi, who is now 59…

Before people start to plan their 2025 vacations, they need to make sure their driver’s license or state ID complies with a federal law set to take effect in May 2025. The REAL ID law, which has faced multiple delays over two decades, will take effect for passengers boarding domestic flights. Congress passed the REAL…

Syrian authorities have appointed the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) military chief as the transitional defense minister. This appointment indicates ongoing shifts in power dynamics within the region. HTS leader Abu Qasra led the group for the last five years. During that time, he played a key role in ousting the Assad government on Dec. 8.…